How Long Should a Baby be on Formula?

Infant Formula
Keep your baby on formula for at least one year. Each species' milk is it's ideal baby food (human milk for humans). It is not the ideal food when it crosses species (cow's milk is for cow not for human). Babies feed cow's milk before they are one year of age often have diarrhea and anemia. Most formulas are based on cow's milk that has been modified for babies, so formula gives babies the nutritional advantages of cow's milk without the problems of drinking it straight.

Generally, pediatrics advise mothers to keep their babies on formula until they lose the taste of it. However, if your pediatrician feels your baby is gaining too much weight on the usual formula (twenty calorie per ounce), he or she may suggest you feed your little one with a lower calorie formula. Low calorie formula is an imitation of human milk, which naturally decreases in calories as the infant grows older because he needs fewer calories per pound of body weight. Often, mothers are eager to switch from formula to cow's milk, since this switch is considered a sign of the baby's growing up. Thinking of your baby's formula milk can help you overcome this temptation.

When it is time to switch from formula to cow's milk, you must decide what kind of cow's milk to feed your little one. Milk differs in fat content and, therefore, calorie content. Pediatricians advise against the use of skim milk before a baby is two years old since this lower calorie milk deprives the baby of a valuable energy source and essential fatty acids and because it contains more salt and protien than a baby's immature kidneys can handle. If your little one is taking a whole milk and is overweight, two percent milk is a safe alternative. While, if your baby is not overweight and is not a compulsive drinker, then use whole milk.

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